When guests enter this year’s event, they are warned, “Rot Runs Deep.” That sentiment is more than a nod to the new character, Pestilence. Although the Four Horsemen from the Apocalypse are not waiting around the corner, the Howl-O-Scream 2026 best bites and beverages have everyone hungry to satisfy every craving before the night is over.
Food and beverages have become a huge draw at Halloween events. While the houses and the scare zones have everyone screaming in the dark, the night is not complete without a nosh.
When the SeaWorld Orlando culinary team created this year’s menu, food trends were part of the conversation. Additionally, they appreciated that authentic ingredients and flavors were as important as thematic concepts and nods to nostalgia. That combination ensured that everyone has tasty and fun choices to enjoy.
Four Must Eat Entrees at 2026 Howl-O-Scream
This year’s Howl-O-Scream menu combines new food items with returning favorites. Additionally, the majority of marketplaces have at least one dessert on the menu. While sweet treats are always tasty, this list focuses on savory choices.
Mercado de los Muertos
Hands down the most successful food marketplace, all the dishes from Mercado de los Muertos are winners. The flavors have authenticity even if the presentation is unexpected. It is clearly a top choice for the Howl-O-Scream 2026 best bites.
Even if this dish is easier to eat at a table versus standing, the Beef Birria Ramen is bold and comforting. The birria paired with the ramen is curious, but it works. This dish would be amazing on a chilly fall night.
Unfortunate
The always popular, returning favorite Spooky Teriyaki Chicken Hibachi is back. Guests would complain if this dish disappeared. The chicken is well-seasoned and the stir fry rice is well-executed. It is a great dish for a mid-event stop. Consider placing an order after hitting the RaveYard.
Jack the Ripper
Another returning favorite, Ripper Revenge, is a great burger. Using the bison adds a game note, but it is not overpowering. The Vampire Blood Jam is tangy and stands up to the bison. Plus, any burger is always better on a brioche bun.
The Rewind
As the first, and last, marketplace in Howl-O-Scream, the Pizza Rolls are a great road snack. Personally, that late night order while watching a boy band performance made my ride home even better. Just like the late-night drive-thru order, these pizza rolls bring back all those nostalgic food orders. It will put a smile on your face.
Toast to These Howl-O-Scream 2026 Beverages
Mocktails, cocktails and beer give guests tons of drink choices throughout SeaWorld Orlando. Whatever makes a person thirsty, there is a drink to quench it.
Larva Lounge
While the name might make you feel itchy, the cocktails at this bar are worth every scratch. For whiskey drinkers, the Golden Pupa is a great take. A version of a sour cocktail, the combination of whiskey, amaretto, lemon juice and blackberry is sweet and tart. It feels sophisticated, which is a twist for a theme park event.
Mercado de los Muertos
While there are plenty of cocktails, the mocktails deserve the spotlight. La Ofrenda is a perfectly refreshing drink. The combination of hibiscus, pineapple, lime, agave, and sparkling water feels like a cool breeze on a humid night. It is flavorful and no one misses the tequila or mezcal.
The Rewind
The 90s themed stop infuses all the pop culture references into the menu. If the Gushers cocktail is too sweet, the Poproc Marg has just enough tartness to make it quite drinkable. Plus, the popping candy garnish is always fun.
Fanta Fright House
Fanta is the Halloween beverage. The Creepy Cantina Chamoy mocktail shows how to elevate the classic Fanta Orange. Combining that drink with Minute Maid Lemonade, Mango Syrup, Chamoy Sauce, Tajín Clásico Seasoning, it is the swicy drink of the season. This drink needs to stay around long after the witching hour.
These food and beverage options are just a small sampling of the choices on the Howl-O-Scream 2026 menu. Come hungry and thirsty because you want to try them all.
Howl-O-Scream 2026 runs now through October 31. Check with the website for availability and tickets.
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